More and more Ukrainians are still coming to Slovenia: How many are actually employed here?
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine four years ago, many Ukrainians have sought refuge in Slovenia. The number of Ukrainians arriving has not decreased, with around 11,500 currently holding temporary protection status, of whom approximately 3,000 are actively working, primarily in manufacturing. Language barriers remain a challenge for integration. Following Russia's February 2022 invasion, Slovenia activated legislation allowing Ukrainian refugees to apply for temporary protection. As of early August 2024, over 13,500 Ukrainians had obtained this status, though applications have remained steady throughout the year. Temporary protection status now lasts until March 2027, with potential extension to 2028. Refugees with this status gain access to the labor market without needing work permits, similar to Slovenian citizens. Many have integrated into the workforce or education system, suggesting they will seek alternative legal residency after their protection status expires.
Over four years have passed since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, yet the flow of Ukrainian refugees into Slovenia continues. As of late July 2024, approximately 11,500 Ukrainians hold temporary protection status in Slovenia, with around 3,000 being employed. The majority of these individuals work in manufacturing industries, though challenges remain, particularly regarding language proficiency. The influx of Ukrainian citizens has steadily increased over time. From the start of the war until early August 2024, 13,558 Ukrainians received temporary protection status, while by mid-July 2024, this number had slightly decreased to 11,476. Despite this slight decline, the rate of applications remained high, with 928 requests filed during the first half of 2024 alone, far exceeding the average of 124 per month recorded in the first half of 2023. Under the revised law governing temporary protection, issued in 2024, the administrative process for extending the status has been simplified. Instead of issuing new identity documents, authorities now record extensions digitally, allowing the status to remain valid until March 4, 2027. A formal decision on further extension is anticipated before March 4, 2028. Those granted temporary protection gain access to the Slovenian labor market under equal conditions as Slovenian nationals. This means they can seek employment without requiring a work permit or unified residence permit. However, they may apply for a temporary residence permit or a unified residence and work permit after obtaining temporary protection status. In cases where their temporary protection status expires, they may request a residence permit for specific purposes outlined in the relevant legislation. According to data from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia, as of May 31, 2024, there were 2,974 Ukrainian nationals among the working population in Slovenia. This figure rose from 2,659 at the end of 2023 and 2,040 at the end of 2022. Before the invasion, the number was 1,307. The Employment Agency records show that as of June 2024, 2,028 Ukrainian nationals were registered as unemployed. These numbers fluctuated throughout the year, with 2,027 registered in December 2023 and 639 in December 2022. During the first half of 2024, 429 individuals were removed from the list due to employment, compared to 480 in 2023 and 267 in 2022. Employment of Ukrainian nationals has primarily occurred in manufacturing, followed by hospitality, healthcare, social services, retail, construction, education, and warehousing. Employers generally view them as motivated and reliable workers, especially in sectors facing labor shortages. Nevertheless, language barriers and recognition of foreign qualifications continue to pose significant obstacles to integration. The ongoing presence of Ukrainian migrants in Slovenia underscores both the resilience of displaced communities and the evolving dynamics of labor markets in response to prolonged conflict. As the legal framework adapts to accommodate longer-term stays, the challenge remains ensuring equitable access to opportunities and resources for all residents.
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